Fucus: Benefits, Dosage, Contraindications
Other name(s)
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Scientific name(s)
Fucus vesiculosus
Family or group:
Aquatic organisms
Active ingredients:
Iodine
Calcium
Indications
Rating methodology
EFSA approval.
Metabolic Syndrome ✪✪✪✪✪
Fucus vesiculosus, used in combination with other ingredients, shows potential in managing metabolic syndrome. An observational study reported significant improvements such as weight reduction, abdominal circumference, fasting glucose, and lipid and blood pressure markers. These results stem from a product combining Fucus and Ascophyllum nodosum with chromium picolinate.
Posologie
Oral
500 mg
InSea2®
Synergies
Effectiveness of Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus vesiculosus on Metabolic Syndrome Components: A Real-World, Observational Study
Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus vesiculosus on glycemic status and on endothelial damage markers in dysglycemic patients
Obesity ✪✪✪✪✪
Clinical studies on the effectiveness of Fucus vesiculosus for weight loss in overweight or obese adults show mixed results. Although Fucus is used in combined formulations, no significant reduction in weight, body mass index, body fat, or glycemic control markers was observed in treated groups compared to placebos. These results suggest that while Fucus is promoted for weight management properties, its effectiveness is not proven.
Posologie
Oral
500 mg
standardized extract
Iodine Deficiency ✪✪✪✪✪
Although Fucus vesiculosus is a rich source of iodine, reliable evidence on its specific clinical effects on treating iodine deficiency is lacking. Historically used to correct deficiencies and prevent goiter, current research on its standalone effectiveness is insufficient. According to the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), the iodine content of fucus (Fucus vesiculosus) varies considerably depending on the environment, season, plant age, and part used. However, on average, a portion of 5 g of dried fucus contains about 450 micrograms of iodine.
Posologie
Oral
500 mg
standardized extract
Properties
Metabolic
Fucus vesiculosus is rich in fucoxanthin, which can stimulate thermogenesis in adipose tissue, increasing heat production and fat burning. This action is potentially useful for promoting weight loss and managing obesity.
Usages associés
Platelet Antiaggregant/Anticoagulant
Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide from Fucus vesiculosus, exhibits anticoagulant effects in laboratory studies, acting on platelet adhesion and promoting fibrinolysis. However, its intestinal absorption is low, limiting its anticoagulant activity in humans.
Hypoglycemic
Preliminary research indicates that Fucus vesiculosus extract may reduce postprandial insulin by inhibiting key digestive enzymes, without significantly affecting glucose levels, suggesting potential to help manage insulin without directly impacting sugar levels.
Usages associés
Dermatological Effect
Topical application of Fucus vesiculosus can reduce skin thickness and signs of aging by increasing the expression of cell integrins. It also stimulates fibroblasts through the transforming growth factor, thus aiding in wound healing.
Safety dosage
Adult:
Studies indicate a dosage of 500 mg to 2000 mg. Oral consumption of Fucus vesiculosus can be dangerous due to its iodine and heavy metal content. Fucus vesiculosus contains up to 0.05% iodine, or 226 mcg/gram of dry weight. Ingesting more than 150 mcg of iodine per day can lead to hyperthyroidism or worsen existing hyperthyroidism. Additionally, Fucus vesiculosus may contain heavy metals such as cadmium, arsenic, and lead, and may cause heavy metal nephropathy.
Precautions
Pregnant women: avoid
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid consuming Fucus vesiculosus due to its heavy metal content.
Breastfeeding women: avoid
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid consuming Fucus vesiculosus due to its heavy metal content.
Contraindications
Thyroid disorders: prohibited
Fucus vesiculosus contains significant amounts of iodine, and an excess of iodine can aggravate thyroid disorders. Prolonged use or excessive amounts of iodides can cause or worsen thyroid gland hyperplasia, thyroid adenoma, goiter, and hypothyroidism.
